Photoreforming of\nPlastic Waste to Sustainable Fuels\nand Chemicals: Waste to Energy

The extensive accumulation of plastic waste has given\nrise to severe\nenvironmental pollution issues. Contemporary conventional recycling\nmethods, such as incineration and landfilling, contribute significantly\nto pollutant emissions and carbon footprints, against the principles\nof sustainable development. Leveraging renewable solar energy to transform\nplastics into high-value chemicals and green fuels offers a more promising\nand sustainable approach to managing plastic waste resources. This\ncomprehensive review centers on the recent advancements in plastic\nphotoreforming, categorizing them based on the types of end products.\nParticular emphasis is placed on the evolving research landscape surrounding\nthe conversion of plastics into high-value chemicals through photoreforming,\nas well as the economic considerations for large-scale photoreforming\nproduction. The analysis conducted here reveals key pathways and emerging\ntrends that are poised to shape the trajectory of enhanced photoconversion,\nultimately influencing the realization of a carbon-neutral future.